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Entertainment

Jennifer Wright

2013-05-29 10:44:22

Q-What’s going on at the Orpheum Theatre this month?

A-There are several exciting events scheduled for this month that are sure to please every member of your family regardless of your interest and age. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - Monday, June 3rd - 6:00pm: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the first film in the Harry Potter series based on the novels by J.K. Rowling. It is the tale of Harry Potter, an ordinary 11-year-old boy serving as a sort of slave for his aunt and uncle who learns that he is actually a wizard and has been invited to attend the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry is snatched away from his mundane existence by Hagrid, the grounds keeper for Hogwarts, and quickly thrown into a world completely foreign to both him and the viewer. Famous for an incident that happened at his birth, Harry makes friends easily at his new school. He soon finds, however, that the wizarding world is far more dangerous for him than he would have imagined, and he quickly learns that not all wizards are ones to be trusted. The Tenors - Saturday, June 8th - 8:00pm: Since their inception only five years ago, The Tenors have been thrilling audiences around the world with their powerful voices and memorable melodies. Their blend of classical music and contemporary pop has garnered them international success. Their music is rich and soulful with powerful anthems and beautiful melodies. For their live performance The Tenors will draw selections from their new album, Lead With Your Heart, as well as some of their past hits. Lead With Your Heart, their second studio album, stretches the boundaries of classical crossover by combining classic songs, modern tunes and Spanish and French world music. From cover features such as Bob Dylan’s “Forever Young” and Elton John’s “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word” to the inspirational anthem “Amazing Grace”, and one of the most recognizable and heroic Tenor arias, “Nessun Dorma”, the diverse track list features a mix of pop favourites and classical staples along with new compositions written and co-written by The Tenors. Over the past two years, The Tenors have performed worldwide and shared the stage with legendary artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Celine Dion (on the Oprah show) Sting, and Paul McCartney, to name a few. More recently, The Tenors were featured performers on two primetime international broadcasts: The Emmy Awards live from Los Angeles and The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations from Windsor Castle in the UK, where The Tenors performed for Her Majesty. 2013 Celebrity & Chef Cookoff: A Benefit for the Orpheum Theatre - Tuesday, June 11th - 6:00pm: Along with an exciting, fast-paced cooking competition, enjoy food and drinks from your favorite local restaurants, bid on auction items (live & silent), and mingle with your fellow foodies and Orpheum supporters! Wichita Marriott Hotel – Grand Ballrom 9100 E. Corporate Hills Dr 2013 Celebrities Jody Adams – WSU, Women’s Basketball Coach Mark Bennett – City of Wichita, District Attorney Linda Brantner – Delta Dental of KS, President & CEO Wayne Chambers – High Touch, CEO Jeff Korsmo – Via Christi Health, President & CEO Mark Larson – KWCH, Meteorologist Michael O’Donnell – State of Kansas, Senator Roger Scholfield – Scholfield Honda, President 2013 Chefs Kevin Dirks – Newport Grill Ben George – Beechcraft Activity Center Jake Lippincott – Petroleum Club Martin Martinez – Candle Club Peter Moretti – Marriott Marshall Roth – Ambassador Hotel Nathan Toubia – Bocconcini The 80th Anniversary Screening of King Kong (1933) - Thursday, June 13th - 7:00pm: Carl Denham needs to finish his movie and has the perfect location; Skull Island. But he still needs to find a leading lady. This ‘soon-to-be-unfortunate’ soul is Ann Darrow. No one knows what they will encounter on this island and why it is so mysterious, but once they reach it, they will soon find out. Living on this hidden island is a giant gorilla and this beast now has Ann in it’s grasps. Carl and Ann’s new love, Jack Driscoll must travel through the jungle looking for Kong and Ann, while avoiding all sorts of creatures and beasts. Bill Cosby - Friday, June 21st - 8:00pm: One of America’s most beloved comedians of all time, Bill Cosby has captivated generations of fans with his comedy routines, iconic albums and best selling books such as Fatherhood. His comedy transcends age, gender and cultural barriers. Cosby broke television’s racial barrier with I Spy, becoming the first African American to costar on a television series while winning three consecutive Emmys. He created and produced the Emmy-winning cartoon Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, which began airing in the 1970s and was made into a film in 2004. The show, based on Cosby’s childhood in Philadelphia, was designed to educate and entertain. The former Navy serviceman’s illustrious list of accomplishments includes roles on the children’s educational show Electric Company and creating and producing the Emmy award winning Little Bill, which is based on his bestselling book series. Perhaps Cosby’s greatest contribution to American entertainment and culture is The Cosby Show, about a close-knit, upper class black family. Cosby said his intent was to portray an American family. Time magazine called the show “an encouraging sign of maturity in matters of race.” The Cosby Show dominated the Number One spot for years, earning nearly unanimous critical praise. Life magazine described the program as “a gentle, whimsical, warmhearted” show whose “delicious ordinariness of its pleasures and tribulations has given millions a fresh, laughter-splashed perspective on their own domestic lives.” Bill Cosby’s current best seller, I Didn’t Ask to Be Born, But I’m Glad I Was. Cosby talks about the Bible, being a grandfather and his first love in his humorous and insightful manner. Cosby has received the Kennedy Center Honors, the Presidential Medal of Freedom (America’s highest civilian honor), the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the Marian Anderson Award. Cosby’s been busy raising a family, too. He married the former Camille Hanks on January 25, 1964, while she was still a student at the University of Maryland. They raised four daughters (Erika, Erinn, Ensa and Evin) and one son (Ennis) and now have three grandchildren. The family resides in New England.

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Entertainment

Jennifer Wright

2013-04-29 13:37:27

Q-What’s going on at the Orpheum Theatre this month?

A-There are five exciting events scheduled for this month that is sure to please. Brit Floyd: P-u-l-s-e 2013 - Wednesday, May 1st - 7:30pm: Celebrating the music of David Gilmour, Roger Waters, Rick Wright, Nick Mason & Syd Barrett! Featuring note-for-note performances of five full album sides from ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’, ‘Wish You Were Here’, ‘The Wall’, ‘The Division Bell’ and ‘Animals’. Having performed to over a half a million fans around the world since it’s first show in Liverpool, England in January 2011, The World’s Greatest Pink Floyd Show, Brit Floyd, returns to the USA to present P-U-L-S-E 2013, The Pink Floyd Ultimate Light & Sound Experience, a stunning new three hour show featuring note-for-note performances of five full album sides, including ‘Wish You Were Here’, ‘Animals’, ‘The Wall’, ‘The Division Bell’, and, in celebration of the 40th anniversary, Pink Floyd’s classic defining album, ‘The Dark Side of The Moon’. Inspired by the record breaking 1994 ‘Division Bell’ Tour and including the trademark Pink Floyd arch and circle light show, and brand new Floydian animation and projection, P-U-L-S-E 2013 will be Brit Floyd’s biggest show yet. Solo projects aside, this is as close to Pink Floyd as you will now ever get! Room 237 - Friday & Saturday, May 3rd & 4th - 8:00pm and Sunday, May 5th - 3:00pm: A subjective documentary that explores the numerous theories about the hidden meanings within Stanley Kubrick’s film The Shining (1980). The film may be over 30 years old but it continues to inspire debate, speculation, and mystery. Five very different points of view are illuminated through voice over, film clips, animation and dramatic reenactments. Together they’ll draw the audience into a new maze, one with endless detours and dead ends, many ways in, but no way out. WSU Contemporary Dance Theatre presents 2013 Dance Series - Saturday, May 11th - 7:30pm: WSU’s Contemporary Dance Theatre production returns to the Orpheum for a production that has in the past included ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary and several mime theatre favorites. The performance this coming year will again be an eclectic evening of dance with something for everyone. Old 97's Concert for the Cure - Wednesday, May 22nd - 7:00pm: Although they became one of the most enduring bands in the alternative country-rock catalog, Old 97’s drew inspiration from a broad range of genres, including the twangy stomp of cowpunk and the melodies of power pop. Formed in 1993 by frontman Rhett Miller and bassist Murry Hammond, the group spent the bulk of the decade posed on the brink of mainstream success, issuing albums that often drew warm reviews but never yielded a substantial hit. Old 97’s tightened their sound as the decade drew to a close, retaining their bar-band vigor while introducing a stronger pop/rock sound on albums like Too Far to Care and Satellite Rides. Miller also mounted a solo career in the early 2000s, but the band remained together nonetheless, continuing to release material with their original lineup intact into the following decade. Grease - Rockin' Rydell Sing-A-Long - Thursday, May 23rd - 7:00pm: A musical about teens in love in the 50’s! It’s California, 1959 and greaser Danny Zuko and Australian Sandy Olsson are in love. They spend time at the beach, but when they go back to school, what either of them don’t know is that they both now attend Rydell High. Danny’s the leader of the T-Birds, a group of black-jacket greasers while Sandy hangs with the Pink Ladies, a group of pink-wearing girls led by Rizzo. When they clash at Rydell’s first pep rally, Danny isn’t the same Danny at the beach. They try to be like each other so they can be together.

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Entertainment

Jennifer Wright

2013-03-25 14:14:26

Q-What’s going on at the Orpheum Theatre this month?

A-There are 3 exciting events scheduled for this month that is sure to please every member of your family. Smash Mouth - Sunday, April 7th - 8:00pm: an American rock band from San Jose, California.The band is composed of Steve Harwell (lead vocals, piano), Paul De Lisle (bass), Michael Klooster (keyboards, programming), Randy Cooke (drums) and Mike Krompass (guitar). Collectively the band Smash Mouth has sold more than 10 million albums worldwide. Along with their number one hits – “Walkin’ on the Sun” and “All Star” – they have consistently smashed radio with other recognizable hits like “Then the Morning Comes”, “Can’t Get Enough Of You Baby”, and a cover of The Monkees classic “I’m a Believer”, which was prominently featured on the Shrek soundtrack. A quick listen to their music and you realize the multi-platinum Smash Mouth is a 60s influenced garage band with a keen pop sensibility that maintains a timeless quality, a style they have created and that is all their own. Having long since established itself as the ultimate true-to-life California party-band the vibe surrounding Smash Mouth is indeed – at its core – about having fun. Brit Floyd: P-u-l-s-e 2013 – Wednesday, May 1 – 7:30 PM Celebrating the music of David Gilmour, Roger Waters, Rick Wright, Nick Mason & Syd Barrett! Having performed to over a half a million fans around the world since its first show in Liverpool, England in January 2011, The World’s Greatest Pink Floyd Show, Brit Floyd, returns to the USA to present P-U-L-S-E 2013, The Pink Floyd Ultimate Light & Sound Experience, a stunning new three hour show featuring note-for-note performances of five full album sides, including ‘Wish You Were Here’, ‘Animals’, ‘The Wall’, ‘The Division Bell’, and, in celebration of the 40th anniversary, Pink Floyd’s classic defining album, ‘The Dark Side of The Moon’. Inspired by the record breaking 1994 ‘Division Bell’ Tour and including the trademark Pink Floyd arch and circle light show, and brand new Floydian animation and projection, P-U-L-S-E 2013 will be Brit Floyd’s biggest show yet. Solo projects aside, this is as close to Pink Floyd as you will now ever get! The Sting - Thursday, April 18 - 7:00pm: Part of the 2013 Classic Film Series, The Sting is a 1973 American caper film set in September 1936 that involves a complicated plot by two professional grifters (Paul Newman and Robert Redford) to con a mob boss (Robert Shaw).[3] The film was directed by George Roy Hill, who previously directed Newman and Redford in the western Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Created by screenwriter David S. Ward, the story was inspired by real-life con games perpetrated by the brothers Fred and Charley Gondorff and documented by David Maurer in his book The Big Con: The Story of the Confidence Man. The title phrase refers to the moment when a con artist finishes the “play” and takes the mark’s money. If a con is successful, the mark does not realize he has been “taken” (cheated), at least not until the con men are long gone. The film is divided into distinct sections with old-fashioned title cards with lettering and illustrations rendered in a style reminiscent of the Saturday Evening Post. The film is noted for its use of ragtime, particularly the melody, “The Entertainer”, by Scott Joplin, which was adapted for the movie by Marvin Hamlisch (and became a top-ten chart single for Hamlisch, when released as a single from the film’s soundtrack). The film’s success encouraged a surge of popular and critical acclaim for Joplin’s work.

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Entertainment

Jennifer Wright

2013-03-01 11:08:26

Q-What’s going on at the Orpheum Theatre this month?

A-There are 6 exciting events scheduled for this month that are sure to please every member of your family regardless of your interest and age. 38th Annual Amira Dance Production Dance Magic 2013: is colorful, unique and fun entertainment for the whole family. Tracy Morgan; Excuse My French: As a stand-up comic best known for his work on NBC’s 30 Rock and Saturday Night Live, Tracy Morgan was first introduced to television audiences in his role as “Hustleman” on the hit comedy series Martin. He went on to join SNL in 1996 where he appeared for seven seasons and created such memorable characters as “Astronaut Jones” and “Brian Fellows.” After leaving SNL, Morgan went on to star in his own comedy series The Tracy Morgan Show and voiced “Spoonie Luv” on Comedy Central’sCrank Yankers. Currently starring in NBC’s Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning 30 Rock, Morgan appears opposite Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin as “Tracy Jordan,” the unpredictable star of Lemon’s (Fey) hit variety show, “TGS with Tracy Jordan.” In 2009 Morgan received his first Emmy nomination for this role in the Supporting Actor category; in the past five years he has also been nominated for the Supporting Actor NAACP Image Award. From Here to Eternity: the 60th Anniversary Screening. It’s 1941. Robert E. Lee Prewitt has requested Army transfer and has ended up at Schofield in Hawaii. His new captain, Dana Holmes, has heard of his boxing prowess and is keen to get him to represent the company. However, ‘Prew’ is adamant that he doesn’t box anymore, so Captain Holmes gets his subordinates to make his life a living hell. Meanwhile Sergeant Warden starts seeing the captain’s wife, who has a history of seeking external relief from a troubled marriage. Prew’s friend Maggio has a few altercations with the sadistic stockade Sergeant ‘Fatso’ Judson, and Prew begins falling in love with social club employee Lorene. Unbeknownst to anyone, the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor looms in the distance. West of Memphis: is an examination of a failure of justice in Arkansas. The documentary tells the hitherto unknown story behind an extraordinary and desperate fight to bring the truth to light. Told and made by those who lived it, the filmmakers’ unprecedented access to the inner workings of the defense, allows the film to show the investigation, research and appeals process in a way that has never been seen before; revealing shocking and disturbing new information about a case that still haunts the American South. Come see this powerful film shown on 35mm through our 1942 Carbon Arc projectors. Trey McIntyre Project: one of the hottest dance companies in the nation is a Boise-based nonprofit arts organization founded to nurture, support and produce the artistic vision of native-Wichitan, Trey McIntyre. Spyro Gyra: Sponsored by Scholfield Honda, As Spyro Gyra contemplates upcoming milestones to its storied career, it’s tempting to fall back on the Grateful Dead lyric, “What a long strange trip it’s been” to describe it. During that time, they have performed over five thousand shows, released 29 albums (not counting “Best Of…” compilations) selling over 10 million albums while also achieving one platinum and two gold albums. Just next year, 2014, Spyro Gyra will celebrate 40 years as a band and they show little sign of wanting to slow down. In their earliest days, Spyro Gyra took their cues from Weather Report and Return to Forever – bands whose creative flights were fueled by a willingness to do things that had never been done before. “I believed that we were springing from what Weather Report did,” says Jay Beckenstein. “I never thought in commercial terms. I just thought they were the next step in the evolution of jazz, and that we would be part of it.” The first few years saw the group’s identity split into a dynamic live act and a producer centric recording process, born out of the rotating cast of characters in the jazz jam beginnings. These albums were the product of the band and a great number of the top session players in New York. In 1983, Beckenstein made the decision to make the albums the work of the band members he shared the stage with night after night, only supplementing with occasional guests. “When we first started,” Beckenstein recalls, “a lot of the jazz purists got on our case about calling what we did jazz and now it’s funny to hear us getting respect from the same people. Like, wow, what you guys did was so much more intriguing than some of the stuff they hear today… Art manifests itself in a multitude of styles and contexts. Isn’t that why we started to play in the first place?” Spyro Gyra was picked up by Amherst Records, a local label who then made a deal for subsequent albums to go to Infinity Records, a label owned by MCA Records. After gaining Infinity its only gold (soon to be platinum) record with Morning Dance, Infinity folded and the group was picked up by MCA Records. There they stayed until MCA acquired noted contemporary jazz label GRP Records. Spyro Gyra moved to GRP in 1990 and put out all but one of their 1990’s output on that label. In 1999, they released a single album, Got The Magic on Windham Hill Jazz. The “aughts” had them returning to an indie mode, licensing their albums to Heads Up International. Most of those Heads Up albums have since returned to the band as self-released independent releases. They returned to Amherst Records in Buffalo for their most recent studio album, A Foreign Affair.

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Entertainment

Jennifer Wright

2013-02-01 10:15:36

Q-What’s going on at the Orpheum Theatre this month?

A-There are 4 exciting events scheduled for this month that are sure to please every member of your family regardless of your interest and age. Donizetti's Don Pasquale: An Opera in Two Acts, Sung in English. ACT I. Don Pasquale is the proprietor of Pasquale’s Garden Restaurant, one of Wichita’s most popular night spots! Pasquale can always count on his nephew Ernesto to turn up for Karaoke Night at the restaurant. Annoyed that Ernesto has resisted all of his attempts to fix Ernesto up with a “nice girl,” Pasquale decides to marry and have children so he can cut Ernesto out of his will. Fortunately for Ernesto, Dr. Malatesta – Pasquale’s psychiatrist – has a foolproof plan to help out. Dr. Malatesta offers to set Pasquale up with his sister Sophronia, a sweet Catholic girl who just graduated from Newman University. What Pasquale doesn’t know is that “Sophronia” is Ernesto’s girlfriend Norina in disguise! Norina grasps Malatesta’s plan quickly: enchant old man Pasquale, pretend to marry him, and then make his life completely miserable. Norina takes to her new role with gusto, bossing the befuddled old man around and transforming his happy little restaurant into a gaudy nightclub. The plan works so well that Pasquale begs the Doctor to help him get rid of “Sophronia”. ACT II. Malatesta tells Pasquale that “Sophronia” and Ernesto will be having a secret rendezvous late that night. Since it’s Karaoke Night, it should be easy to follow Ernesto there. When they confront “Sophronia,” Malatesta – on Pasquale’s orders – tells “Sophronia” that Pasquale’s nephew Ernesto will be marrying a girl named Norina soon, and the new couple will be moving in with Pasquale. Outraged, “Sophronia” refuses to live in the same house with another woman, and threatens to move out. But first, she demands proof that the wedding isn’t just a trick to get rid of her. Pasquale happily consents to a wedding on the spot and asks Malatesta to go fetch Norina, only to learn that Norina has been there the whole time! Drumline Live: An energetic cast has honed its precision and energy with years of training in marching band programs across the southern United States. DRUMLINE LIVE is an international tour based on the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band tradition. With riveting rhythms, bold beats and ear-throbbing energy, the staged show will be a synchronized musical showcase of the HBCU experience. Incorporating original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of top 40 hits, group performances will range from colorful, choreographed routines to heavy doses of drum riffs and cadences. Equally at home with the hottest contemporary hip hop, R&B, classic Motown tunes, and the rousing sounds of the great brass tradition, DRUMLINE LIVE is thrilled to share the marching band experience with a wider audience. Count Basie Orchestra with the New York Voices: is one of the most thriving big bands in history With 17 Grammy awards, the musicians have grown up with the Kansas City Swing style of Count Basie and add their own voice to the band. With 19 performers, 17 sidemen, 1 vocalist, and 1 bandleader, they’ve become the premier jazz band. Check out the Kansas City style swing for yourself. The Count Basie Orchestra celebrates the big band experience through the completely original and identifiable Count Basie repertoire. Come and experience our musical heritage. They will be releasing the latest recording in the next few months, be on the lookout for the new album wherever the Count Basie Orchestra performs. You can then say, ” I came back to Basie. The real Basie! Not a counterfeit…. Celebrating their 20th Anniversary in 2009, New York Voices is the Grammy Award winning vocal ensemble renowned for their excellence in jazz and the art of group singing. Like the great groups that have come before, such as Lambert, Hendricks and Ross, Singers Unlimited, and Manhattan Transfer, they have learned from the best and taken the art form to new levels. Their interests are rooted in jazz, but often Brazilian, R and B, classical, and pop influences are infused with equal creativity and authenticity. John Denver: A Rocky Mountain High Concert is a live touring experience honoring Denver’s memory and music. The concert features projected video of Denver performing, backed LIVE by members of his original touring band and an accompanying string section. For the first time in fifteen years, audiences will experience John Denver in concert, performing hit songs from throughout his career. Denver’s estate has recently announced that ATO Records will celebrate his life and music with The Music Is You: A Tribute to John Denver, slated for early 2013 release. The album features covers of Denver’s most popular songs by a diverse group of artists including Dave Matthews, My Morning Jacket, Train, Amos Lee, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, Brandi Carlile, Lucinda Williams, Josh Ritter, Old Crow Medicine Show, Kathleen Edwards, Brett Dennen, Milow, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Blind Pilot, J Mascis, Sharon Von Etten and more to be announced. Today, Denver’s status as a cultural icon stands undiminished. His popularity and continuing influence on popular culture fifteen years after his untimely death in 1997 is remarkable. The fusion of classic Denver tunes combined with performances by musicians from his original band and archival video footage makes the Rocky Mountain High tour an uncommon musical treat, dishing up night after night of unforgettable music, all in tribute to the musical legacy of a national treasure: John Denver.

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Entertainment

Tiffany Bonds

2012-11-19 09:46:25

Q- Do you have any tips on planning a holiday party?

A- The key to a successful holiday party is forward planning. So, with the Christmas festivities just around the corner, now's the time to start turning talk about office Christmas parties, client Christmas parties or any other festive season event into action. While the ‘to do’ list can seem overwhelming at times, Here are some tips, to help make your Christmas party or corporate event the talk of the social calendar. First question…will your Christmas Party have a theme? Before you think about booking venues or hiring entertainment, decide on a theme, should you want one. You’ll find venue selection much easier if you already have an idea in mind. Entertainment, catering and invitations should all reflect the theme too. There's no limit to theme possibilities. It could be a winter wonderland and Santa/Elves dress, casino party, or fun way of reflecting your brand. As early as possible, start contacting potential venues; most will offer site inspections with their in-house events manager. Things to consider when choosing a venue include: * Capacity – is it large enough or would you have to compromise your guest list? * Location — is it accessible, good for cabs and public transport? If not, you may need to consider hiring buses or even overnight accommodation. Remember the Christmas party season is incredibly busy. Venues start getting booked up from October. If you find the ideal venue this year, consider pre-booking it for the following year. Invitations — make a good first impression! The first impression of your event for guests will be the invitation, so it needs to either stay on theme, or at very least give a hint of the type of event they can expect. You’ll want to finalize your guest list as soon as possible so you can get your invites out early and give your guests plenty of notice. A manageable RSVP date is essential. Entertainment — think about everyone's taste. A good performance act can make or break your event, so do your research and choose wisely. A decision based on your personal taste will often backfire, so be democratic and gather a panel to help make the final decision. Finally…enjoy yourself! It's the end of a long year, so even if you're in charge of everyone else's festive cheer, make sure you take some time out to celebrate with your colleagues or clients.

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Entertainment

Kelly Tippie

2012-10-02 15:16:49

Q- Every year our family looks forward to going all out for Halloween. Of course, the kids always have a ton of ideas for costumes and never lack in creativity. My creativity though is not what it could be. Any ideas for great costumes for adults?

A- Getting older does not mean we have to stop following trends, especially when the trend means fun Halloween costumes! And do not worry; once you get out and start browsing your options, you are sure to find plenty of costumes that spark your interest. This year, there is no end to the interesting options in just about every genre of costume you can imagine. If you want to go with one of the hottest costume trends this year, consider going with superheroes. Who would not want to don the persona of the Caped Crusader or tap into their Spidey senses? Some of the popular choices also include Miss Kato, The Avengers, Zorro, and Captain America, and of course the Dark Knight. Another popular costume is the silver Invisible Man suit, for those seriously going undercover. If superheroes are not your thing, don’t fret, there are still plenty of options. Consider going retro as some of your favorite television characters like Gilligan, the Skipper, Ginger, or MaryAnn from Gilligan's Island. The offerings in the television genre are huge, so you are sure to find one, retro or otherwise, that you absolutely love. Also super hot this year and popular with the younger crowd, the sexy Leg Avenue line. This line offers plenty of options to spice up any party. Geek is the new chic, especially in costumes. Another great option includes full on geek-o-rific with many fun and lovably nerdy costumes. As you can see, this year it will not be difficult to find something that shows off your true inner nature. So get out there and enjoy!

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Entertainment

Chris Simons

2011-12-05 15:35:44

Question: Where do I find a complete line of home recreational products?

Answer: There are a variety of stores for home recreational products. It’s convienent to find a location that has a complete line of game room furniture. This may include a range of bars, back- bars, barstools, poker tables and chairs, pub tables, spectator chairs, theater room seating, to wall art from the top manufacturers. In addition, custom finishes/stains and fabrics are available with many of the manufacturers. Obviously, the popular product during this time of year is pool tables, new and used. The season is coming up and the fall is approaching. It is a great time for purchasing pool tables. Lighting for over your pool tables and game tables is offered from Brunswick, Imperial, and Ram Lighting. Specialty lighting for NFL, MLB, NBA, and some college team light scan also are found.1-pc or 2-pc cue sticks are easy to find. There are cues on display that are made by McDermott, Lucasi, Joss, Players, Dufferin, CueTec, and Action. There are a complete line of items that range for the professionals to the beginners. In addition, accessories to care and maintain the cues are available, as well as a large variety of cases to choose from. When purchasing any product it is important to consider the quality. Amusement products tables and foosball tables can be found by Brunswick, Valley, and Tornado. You may also find electronic and steel tip dartboards, cabinets, and accessories. Pacman and Galaga machines, pinball machines, and shuffleboard tables are great for the family. One of the hottest items out is shuffle board tables. They range in length from 9’ to 22’. #1 Champion Shuffleboard offers custom stains and styles, and electronic scorers. Family and friends need something in addition to their entertainment during the fall and winter. Hot tubs are perfect for the fall and winter seasons. Find a place with a variety of reputable products and services such as, moving, resets, re-felting, re-rubber rails, and parts. Hot tubs are great for your rest and relaxation. Cal Spas has been named “Best Hot Tub/Spa” Brand & Manufacturer in the About.com and the Pool & Patio Reader’s Choice Awards for 2011. Spas are available for 1-2 people to 8-10, or to an exercise spa are available in different shell and siding colors. There are also steps, covers, filters, and Leisure Time chemicals. Make sure that you can find a store that has a large variety of high quality items. I would also recommend going somewhere that with provide you with the customer service and assistance for your shopping needs. Now is the best time of the year to search for home and game room products.

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Entertainment

Chris Simons

2011-09-26 14:53:42

Q: What to look for when buying a top, quality pool table?

A: The first thing to look for in a good table is the quality playing surface. The only way to have a level and consistent playing surface is to use slate. Not only slate, but slate that has been milled by automation and not by hand. You need to be sure to ask. Next, make certain that the slate has a three piece bed that is bolted through the slate so that the table maintains its playability characteristics. Many people believe that a one piece slate bed will play more true, however, a one piece slate bed just sits in a cradle in the base frame and is not bolted down, which will create inconsistencies in the roll of the ball. Whereas, a three piece slate bed is shimmed and leveled to each piece and then the seams are grouted to insure great playability. Next is the base frame construction. Brunswick tables are engineered tables. They are all machine nut and bolt, metal-to-metal construction. There are no wood screws, staples or glue holding the cabinet together. BENEFIT----Therefore it will last forever! You can take it apart and put it back together 100 times and it will play the same. Also, make certain the base frame is stained and sealed not only on the outside but also on the inside. The moisture content should stay between 6-8% so the table won’t split or crack from dryness and it won’t warp from moisture. Also, quality solid wood top rails and cushions are essential. The top rails are bolted through the slate. Inside the rails are t-nuts or high-performance nut plates. Most manufactures use t-nuts to attach their rails to the slate, which limits its tightness. Brunswick uses high performance nut plates to attach their rail to the slate. This nut plate allows 70% more torque in tightening the rails to the slate, which enhances the playing performance of the pool table. BENEFIT----This feature eliminates vibration and deflection when you shoot a bank shot and enhances the overall performance of the table. The cushions on the rails should have vulcanized canvas on top of the cushion to control the bounce. BENEFIT---the height of the nose of the cushion is always the same all the way around the table so the ball meets the cushion at the proper height. To guarantee this, Brunswick is the only company that installs the cushions on the rail with an automated, precision piece of machinery. Every other manufacturer applies the cushions by hand. Other than that, it is just a matter of taste. Do you like light, medium or dark wood stains? Choose from ball and claw, queen anne, tapered, round, rams head legs or talon legs. Are you looking for something casual, formal, classic or contemporary? Do you like the traditional exposed leather pocket or the in-line pocket? You have many options when selecting a pool table for your home.

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Entertainment

J Basham

2010-07-01 12:04:00

Being born and raised here in Wichita I’ve always been very interested in the history, can you please tell me about the Orpheum Theatre?

Answer: The Orpheum Theatre in Wichita, Kansas represents one of the finest remaining examples of atmospheric school of theatre architecture which was developed during the first part of the 1900s. There were two major schools of design: the standard school derived its form and decoration from nineteenth century opera houses and the vaudeville theatre traditions. The atmospheric school concentrated on creating interiors that could provide the patron with the feeling he inhabited a landscape setting.

The architect for the Orpheum, John Eberson, was the creator of the atmospheric school. In his book, The Picture Palace, Dennis Sharp has classified the Orpheum’s style as "pre-atmospheric". However, further research indicates that the Wichita structure is in fact an authentic atmospheric with all the accoutrements associated with the style. Opening on September 4, 1922, it was the first atmospheric theatre in the United States. The Majestic in Houston, Texas was the second. The Orpheum was conceived as a garden of old Andalusia. Its entire design was that of a Spanish garden or court "made festive by music and torchlight." The Orpheum had a fully developed decorative theme and the sky and star projections properly associated with the atmospheric theatre. The magnificent proscenium arch is the main feature of the auditorium which originally contained 1,700 seats. The sidewalls of the auditorium were accented by niches with mock tile roofs and grills and wooden lattice work arches across the ceiling to create a courtyard effect. The theme of a Spanish courtyard was continued in the decoration of the balcony. The stairways to the mezzanine are ornamented with the original plaster moldings and arched doorways. On the stage in the flyout hangs the theatre’s original fire curtain. It is a hand executed painting on asbestos, designed specifically for the Orpheum by John Eberson and rendered by Fabric Studio of Chicago. This curtain is quite valuable in its own right. The Orpheum Theatre was originally conceived by a group of local investors and when construction completed it was leased to Carl Hobitzelle, the operator of a $6,000,000.00 theatre chain. The initial construction cost of the theatre was $750,000.00. Opening on Labor Day, 1922, it was an integral part of the famous "Orpheum Circuit" and in its heyday virtually every major star of vaudeville graced its stage, including such luminaries as Eddie Cantor and Fannie Brice. During its vaudeville period, more than 17,000 acts appeared with the playbill changing three times each week. At the time the Orpheum was built, modern sound enhancements were not available and the architects of the period had to be skilled acoustical engineers. John Eberson was one of the best and, to this day, the quality of sound within the auditorium, with or without amplification, is exceptional. The Orpheum Theatre has significant associations nationally and internationally with the development of a whole new concept and style of theatre architecture. In 1980 the Orpheum was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1984 it was gifted to the Orpheum Performing Arts Centre, Ltd., a non profit corporation which is dedicated to the preservation, restoration and ongoing utilization of this important part of our cultural and architectural heritage. To the greatest extent possible, it is the intent of the Orpheum Performing Arts Centre, Ltd to restore this beautiful theatre to the design that John Eberson initially conceived and constructed. J. Basham has been with the Orpheum Theatre for 3 ½ years, he is director of theatre operations, and promotions. If you have any further questions he can be reached, (316) 263-0884 or you may e-mail him at Orpheum@wichitaorpheum.com

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Crystal Willoughby

2009-03-01 14:14:00

Answer: Yes, Ballroom dancing has become very popular over the last 7 years or so. In the early decades of the 20th century partnership dancing was the form of entertainment and amusement. Instead of heading for the movie theater young men and women would head for the dance halls. Many various styles of partnership dancing emerged from this time. Charleston, Big Band Swing, Balboa, Shag, and even our Country Western style dance. These American made dances are now our heritage. People would dance to find a love. People would dance for recreation or sport and eventually, people would dance for the love of the dance. Today, partnership dancing has made a huge comeback because people are tired of sitting at home by themselves watching TV. With the Internet, e-mail and texting, we as a generation have lost our ability to communicate. Dancing is a type of communication. When one person asks a question, they then wait for an answer. This is true also in dancing. On the dance floor the guy is the leader and the lady is the follower! Now wait a minute ladies! It isn’t as bad as it sounds! I love to have a man who knows what he is doing to lead me around that dance floor, and then easily sweep me off my feet in a low dip. It is amazing! As I was saying...The men lead and the ladies follow. Different than dancing by yourself, two people have to move together. This is the attraction for the current generation. To reconnect with people of the opposite sex and move to the music is a thrill! This is the new social skill to learn. To be able to keep rhythm in the feet and continue talking on the dance floor is an ability all modern men and women should have! Network Television has also helped the popularity of Ballroom dance. Shows like Dancing With The Stars and So You Think You Can Dance have been big in other countries for years. Finally, the interest of these shows has made it to the U.S. The Television audience for these shows are huge! The interest is bigger now than ever. However, most of those people are still sitting on the couch watching the stars instead of being one. It is time to be the star yourself! There are so many ways to learn how to partnership dance. You can check out books and videos from your local library or buy them off the Internet. Some people are able to learn this way. Most people need to feel the dance and have it shown to them. This is hands on learning. This is the most successful way of learning. To learn this way, may I suggest an instructor. There are so called instructors at local recreation centers and workout gyms. Some of these might actually be decant teachers. However, you might have the same experience that I had when I went to one of these. The instructor said just do this...and proceeded to dance. That helped me very little. Unless an instructor is able to break down the steps and verbalize them, people are unable to learn. Try to find the most reputable instructors in your area. Usually these will be in an actual school or dance studio. Make sure to look around, not all instructors are equal. Ask about private lessons and group lessons and ask about specials that they may be promoting. So many dances to choose from and so much fun to be had. Make sure you find a great place to practice as well. And remember to always have a great time and meet some new people. Improve your social skills and your social life by being the suave dancer on the floor.

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Courtney Toben

2009-02-01 14:22:00

Question: Is ballroom and Latin dancing just for couples and if I don’t have a partner what would I get out of partnership dancing?

Answer: No, ballroom and Latin dancing is not just for couples. It is for everyone. This is one of the biggest questions pertaining to partnership dancing. More and more singles are beginning to realize that you don’t have to be in a relationship or have a specific dance partner to enjoy one of the most popular social activities out there today. There are so many reasons that singles are getting off the couch and out of the house and on to the dance floor. Whether it’s for exercise, to improve their social life or to figure out how to express themselves and add some spice to their life. When people think of exercise they usually think about machines, running or aerobics classes and not about partnership dancing. But, what most people don’t realize is that dancing is a great cardiovascular and core workout. When a person is dancing their blood is pumping, their heart is pounding, their lungs breathing evenly while the body is moving through the patterns of the dance. Instead of doing sit-ups to strengthen your abs try some salsa or swing dancing. Partnership dancing is a great way to strengthen and tone muscles in your arms, stomach, hips and legs. As with other forms of exercise, it is not something that happens over night but once the dancing itself becomes comfortable then people start to see themselves in a totally different way. They are moving their bodies in ways they may not have before. Getting out and dancing is a great way to improve one’s social life. There are many singles who decide to take dance lessons to meet new people and to add a little more to their life. Dance studios have both male and female instructors that you will be paired with if you do not have a dance partner. So the best place to start is to find a dance studio and begin with some social dance lessons. A studio itself is a great place to meet other singles who have chosen to make dance a part of their life. Once you start to feel comfortable with what you are learning then the next step is to take it out on the town and use those new dance moves. Check the newspaper for dance mixers, join some group classes, or just go out and ask someone to dance. People find that once they get a few moves under their belt their confidence level goes way up. Many of my single students have commented that learning to dance has been a positive life changing experience for them. They have learned how to express themselves in ways they didn’t know before. They are confident even going out on their own for an evening and asking someone to dance. Some have even found the love of their life just by asking them if they would like to dance. From the lyrics of a famous song sung by Leann Womack, “If you get the choice to sit it out or dance….. I hope you dance”.

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Entertainment

Steve Bohling

2008-12-31 10:25:00

Question: Has ballroom dancing changed over the years? Is it hard to learn, or is it my grandmother’s same old waltz?

Answer: Ballroom dancing is not hard to learn. It is not necessary to have “natural talent”, a fit body or even a dance partner. The best way to assure your success is to have a knowledgeable instructor. The social patterns are not difficult and were designed to showcase the characteristics of the dance and timing. If you are tired of sitting on the sidelines or need some new moves, ask around. I think you will be surprised to learn how many people are taking lessons somewhere. When people ask me if I have seen any changes in ballroom dancing, I sense what they really want to know is something more personal. They are curious about whether or not they might look uncool or outdated. The answer is no. These styles were developed for the music they are danced too. They are refined and polished and by no means look outdated. In fact, many of the more modern dances like Hip-Hop and Jazz share patterns and ideas with ballroom dances like Samba, Foxtrot, and Cha-Cha. Ballroom dancing has kept pace with the changes and variations of music, and in some ways, surpassed its musical counterpart. For many people these days, ballroom dancing and dancing in general is very much associated with competition (ie,.. Dancing with the Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, Olympics) we must remember that it is very much an art form, too. In both senses, we should expect that either through competition or art, the best practitioners are going to push the limit as to what is considered good dancing. That is indeed what has occurred. Ballroom/Latin dancing has become more energetic and athletic and has continued to push the limits of what two bodies can do to music. After attending a live competition, many of my students remark how surreal the experience was. I realized not long ago that the expectations where quite different from the real thing. Some thoughts expressed to me were that the crowd acted more, “like a hockey game.” Others commented, “that had to hurt!” and “I don’t know what I saw, but it was beautiful.” Unlike other art forms performed on a stage, or sports events where lets face it, your best view is still on the Jumbo-tron screen, ballroom dancing is in your face, literally. Professionals have perfected their “craft” allowing them to dart in and out of traffic and avoid other dancers. Their uncanny ability to dance right to the edge of the dance floor at full speed and stop on a dime is at times a bit unnerving for those sitting in the the front row. You might think that was just luck; seeing that they never seem to look down, but when they dip and sway the girl right over the top of your table, with a wink and smile, you know instantly they knew where they were the whole time. In some ballroom circles there is debate as too how much ballroom/Latin dancing has changed. However, it really only takes a few searches on Youtube to discover that what we considered great dancing then and now, are very different. In comparison to the competitive dancing of today, that of the ‘60s and ‘70s looks very social. Try searching for “Bill and Bobbie Irvine; 1960s Ballroom Champions”. Then compare that to “2008 Emerald Ball Paul Borbala Pro Smooth Foxtrot”. You will see some of the differences I am alluding to. For Latin style dancing, search “Max and Yulia demo at Blackpool 06”. You can also look at other related videos, but keep in mind nothing is like seeing in person. The closest competition to Wichita is the KC Heart of America Dance Championship. Hope to see you there.

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Mike Wasson

2006-08-01 11:53:00

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Entertainment

Mike Wasson

2006-07-01 08:29:00

Question: What is interactive dinner theater?

ANSWER: There are many different types of theater. In traditional theaters the audience pays admission, enters and simply watches the performance. For the past 25 years dinner theaters have increased in popularity. Dinner Theaters generally include a buffet style dinner before the evening’s performance. An interactive dinner theater is different.The venue for the performance of an interactive dinner theatre is the dining area. The interaction takes place as soon as the audience arrives as the actors, in character, welcome the guests and escorts them to their tables. More cast members introduce themselves while serving beverages to the newly arrived guests. At this time the audience is introduced to the theme of the play and informed why they are really there. Audience members are now guests at a wedding reception, family members at a family reunion, or members of a fraternal group enjoying a dinner cruise aboard the Starship in outer space.Soon the audience begins to notice the absence of a stage. Interactive dinner theaters do not use a stage so the actors perform in and around the audience. As the story unfolds, audience members are encouraged, bribed and even shanghaied to participate in the show performing small roles, such as, the best man at the wedding, cheerleaders at the High School reunion or cooks at a Chili Cook-off.During the course of the evening at an interactive dinner theatre, one of the cast members may get “bumped off” and it’s up to the audience to help solve “Whodunit”. The multi-course course meal is served progressively during the performance by the actors while in character. If an actress plays the part of a grumpy old woman, chances are, a grumpy old woman is going to serve your dinner. It’s during the serving of the dinner when things get interesting as the audience members are allowed to freely talk to the actors and try to obtain clues to help solve the evening’s mystery. As the show concludes, the audience fills out solution forms stating who they think “dun nit!”! The solutions are read following the performance and prizes are awarded for correct answers, funny answers and even stupidly creative answers.You will remember and enjoy many different entertainment events throughout your life. Among the most enjoyed and most remembered will be your attendance at an interactive dinner theater.

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Entertainment

Dr Dennis Ross

2002-12-01 09:46:00

:  It seems as though Wichita is becoming more of a hot spot for things like theatre and opera.  This is wonderful as it is the thing we missed most from Chicago.  What are some of the events planned for the future?

ANSWER: Although still in its infancy, the Wichita Grand Opera has brought to Kansans the greatest tenors of modern times, Luciano Pavoratti and Placido Domingo.  Typically these great opera stars perform only in major cities and with limited schedules but they diverted time to come to Wichita Kansas, a fact that has surprised many in Kansas, as well as the opera world.  So why did they choose Wichita?  A large amount of the credit must go to the Grand Opera's general director, Parvan Bakardiev and to Margaret Ann Pent, the artistic director.   In addition, however, Mr. Pavoratti wanted to bring opera to the common man.  When asked, "Why Wichita?"  Pavoratti responded, "Why not?"  He felt that if he sang well, the ordinary person would hear opera and desire more.  By comparison, a child who has never tasted chocolate doesn't realize that he likes chocolate. After the first bite he asks for more. Similarly one learns to enjoy the opera after being exposed to this historic art form as Mr. Pavoratti had predicted.  Placido Domingo will open our season on December 7th at Century II Convention Hall at 6:00 P.M. performing several well-known opera arias and duets, as well as familiar Christmas musical pieces.  Metropolitan Diva, Veronica Villarroel, will join him, under the baton of Maestro Kohn with the Wichita Grand Opera Orchestra and Chorus. His performance will set the stage for two full-length operas coming to Wichita January 31st and February 1st, featuring the Russian State Opera in cooperation with the Wichita Grand Opera performing Puccini's "Tosca" and Verdi's "Il Trovatore.    One hundred and ninety Russians and Americans with all of the sets and costumes for two full-length operas is again quite a feat for a fledgling opera company. And in June, we hope to mount a unique outdoor production of Bizet's "Carmen" on the lake at Bradley Fair, like no where else.

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Entertainment

Catherine Consiglio

2002-06-01 14:02:00

Question:  What is chamber music?  Can it be in any type of music?

Answer:  A literal definition of chamber music might be; music performed by a small ensemble with out a conductor. Now it makes sense that if no electrical amplification is used the venue will need to be smaller than say... Lawrence-Dumont Stadium. Thus the term chamber music, which in days of old was basically a living room or area of a home. Remember humanity didn't always have television and "The Mall" for relaxation and entertainment.  As long as someone sang, someone played a simple drum (banged on a table) or wooden flute (whistled) it was 'chamber music'.  It doesn't matter what the instruments are...just that the performers are making music together.  They feel something the same way and are interested in what their fellow musicians have to say.  Truth is it's just a conversation between friends.  Trying to express an idea, a feeling, an emotion, an opinion about something...anything, deep or not.  Another key element is the way in which the musical conversation takes place.  In any good chat there are moments of listening, moments where you banter back and forth, moments of empathy, anger or infectious enthusiasm. So much that you might end up talking at the same time!Body motion is mandatory in chamber music because there is no conductor.  To do something as simple as start and stop someone (the delegated leader at the moment) has to make a gesture everyone else can understand and follow.  There are certainly more complex musical issues such as timing, articulations, tempos, balance, interpretation and even tone colors that have to be talked about and then worked out in rehearsals.  But all of the actual music making boils down to an ability to communicate with each other and interpret this great thing we call music!Chamber music is definitely a part of other types of music.  Classical, folk, jazz, blues, even those songs while you clean up the dinner dishes and in the car on family vacations qualify as chamber music.

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Entertainment

Sheryl Blue

2001-10-01 17:37:00

Question: How does a slot machine work? Is it programmed to pay off certain amounts within a specific period of time or is it purely random? Is it possible some machines haven't paid off for say a year or so?

Answer:  Each slot machine contains a computer chip that randomly selects game outcomes.  There are many different types of slot games and they all have different hit frequencies.  This randomness effects how often and how much the machine pays out.  Casino personnel cannot effect individual game outcomes … how you do on any given day is a matter of chance, luck and timing.Some casinos offer players cards that track play and issue comps, coupons and rewards based on the length of play and the amount of money bet.  Usage of these cards in no way effects the outcome of the game.  These programs are simply a means to reward players based on their tracked play.